2/23 Pena speaks up

Carlos Pena may be the new guy in Cubs camp but he made a point of stepping up to talk to the players during defensive drills on Wednesday. The topic was who has priority over certain pop ups and fly balls, and Pena wanted to point out that there are certain areas on the field where it is only one person’s responsibility. For example, Pena is in charge of the area to his left, a triangle, if you will, from him to the pitcher to the catcher. He asked manager Mike Quade if he could say something during the workout.

“He’s like, ‘Do you mind if I say something?’ and I said, ‘No — great,’” Quade said. “It’s a group effort in so many ways. Also, people in other organizations have heard other instructors say different things. Any input seems to make sense to bring up.”

Pena is helping Tyler Colvin learn first. Now, he’s trying to help the team.

“I’m happy he felt comfortable in making the point,” Quade said.

– Carrie Muskat